Labour MP Bill Esterson supports the ban on wild animals in circ

This week will be decisive for the fate of wild animals in the UK, as both the British and Scottish Parliaments will be debating on whether or not they should be banned from circuses.

In a statement in support of the ban Sefton Central Labour MP Bill Esterson said: “There is overwhelming public support for a ban, with nearly three British citizens out of every four in favour according to recent polls.

"This support is reflected in Parliament: Early Day Motion 403 asking the Government to ban wild animals in circuses is one of the most signed EDMs in Westminster with 196 signatures to date.

"The Government itself does not deny that the use of wild animals in circuses is cruel but argues that it is prevented to introduce a ban due to the UK Human Rights Act and the EU Service Directive. However there is no existing case-law on this matter and the Government has not published the legal advice it has received.

"An outright ban on the use of wild animals in circuses would not breach the Human Rights Act or the EU Services Directive, once again paving the way for the Coalition Government to implement a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses without further delay.

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